Hitzlsperger prepared to be patient

The 30-year-old former Aston Villa and West Ham midfielder joined up with Everton in September on trial after failing to find a club following his release from German side Wolfsburg.

Despite a lack of fitness, he impressed enough to earn himself a contract until the end of January.

His impact has been pretty minimal, but the former German International knew that when he was signed it was mainly for cover and that's what it has proved to have been.

He has made four Premier League appearances, all of which came last month and totalled 193 minutes of football.

But like all competitive footballers, the German isn't happy warming the bench and wants more first team action.

'I know where I've come from so I've learned to be patient but I'm not just happy to sit on the bench all season long. I can`t wait for the next game I`ll be playing and hopefully it`s Saturday. he told The Post.

Many viewed the signing of Hitzlsperger as good cover for Darron Gibson, who had been ruled out for three months with a thigh injury.

But since his return to fitness, Hitzlsperger has dropped to the bench. But with Marouane Fellaini suspended for three games an opportunity may come his way.

He continued: 'I want to improve and be part of this team and start in more games. I'll be ready and waiting for my chance.

'It's sort of difficult because I`ve come here to play but I know my role at this club and I'm prepared to be patient.

Meanwhile Everton have been linked with a move for Wigan midfielder James McCarthy in the January transfer window.

The 22-year-old Republic of Ireland international has been watched by Everton officials in recent weeks and he could be viewed as a long term replacement for Marouane Fellaini.

He joined Wigan from Hamilton Academical in 2009 for £1.2million, agreeing personal terms on a five-year-contract.

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